Liam Rosenior introduced Liam Delap at half-time in Chelsea’s clash against Newcastle United on Saturday in a bid to turn the game around.
The Blues went 1-0 down early in the first half, resulting in Malo Gusto coming off during the break.
Delap replaced him as Rosenior looked to get another attacker on the pitch, but his plan did not work. For many Chelsea supporters, it would not have been too much of a surprise.
What is he talking about? 😵💫
Liam Rosenior on Chelsea team huddle
Credit: Andrew Kearns – CameraSport/Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Liam Delap’s xG has been a concern this season
Delap has not had too much joy in front of goal in the current campaign. In total, the striker has scored just once in 21 Premier League appearances.
His xG is pretty low and he is still underperforming there. According to WhoScored, it is currently 4.48, so Delap should really be on around four or five goals.
As per Sofascore, the 23-year-old had four shots and one big chance against Newcastle. He missed his golden opportunity to score, though, which would not have shocked too many Chelsea fans based on the above.
Because of injuries and Joao Pedro’s form, Delap has not had a consistent run in the team and the opportunity to find rhythm. It is no surprise that his shooting looks so rusty at times.
Ultimately, there is context to the Englishman’s struggles, but he needs to improve quickly. Chelsea are being linked with Julian Alvarez and a few other centre-forwards.
Liam Delap giving Chelsea no choice but to loan him out
Whether Chelsea sign a new striker or not, Delap looks as if he could really do with a loan.
This is so harsh on Delap! 😭
TalkingPoints user on Liam Delap
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
The £30m England Under-21 international obviously has potential. Last season, he scored 12 goals in 37 top-flight appearances, which is a good return for a young forward playing for a side who would go on to get relegated.
However, Chelsea have proved to be too much of a step up for him so far. At times, Delap really looks out of his depth, struggling to link up with the team’s other players and get accurate shots away.
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